Cognitive Dysfunction in Older Adults with Type 2 Diabetes: Links, Risks, and Clinical Implications

Clin Geriatr Med. 2020 Aug;36(3):407-417. doi: 10.1016/j.cger.2020.04.002. Epub 2020 Apr 17.

Abstract

The prevalence of comorbid diabetes and cognitive dysfunction increases as the population ages. Diabetes increases the risk of progression of cognitive dysfunction through a spectrum of cognitive decline to mild cognitive impairment then to dementia. Cognitive dysfunction, especially impairment in the executive domain, has a negative impact on patients' self-care tasks. With further progression of dementia and the development of behavioral problems, the challenge to carers and health care professionals looking after these patients is significant. Therefore, clinical trials are needed to explore the impact of novel hypoglycemic therapy on cognitive function as an important outcome in this population.

Keywords: Cognitive dysfunction; Diabetes mellitus; Management; Older people.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Blood Glucose / metabolism
  • Cognition / physiology*
  • Cognitive Dysfunction / complications*
  • Dementia / complications*
  • Diabetes Complications*
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / drug therapy*
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / psychology
  • Disease Progression
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypoglycemic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Male
  • Quality of Life
  • Risk Factors
  • Self Care

Substances

  • Blood Glucose
  • Hypoglycemic Agents